BECCA - Business Espionage Controls & Countermeasures Association

We Focus On The Human Factor

BECCA offered paper and pencil tests for many years at the request of the U.S. DoD and others, but hardcopy tests are no longer required. Most CCO functions are now online, including the CCO test. This will make the certification process easier for everyone in both the public and private sectors.

The New Certified Confidentiality Officer (CCO) Essay Test:

A Review:

By John Kanalis - BECCA Europe Administrator

Each "turn" on BECCA’s journey over the years acts as a cornerstone on the evolution of security science and in particular, its scientific sub-field of business espionage, proving that science is dynamic when its researchers want to offer more.The new essay test consists of an excellent choice of questions that correspond to academic levels. Then, most important is that each question "forces" the candidate to think, analyze, synthesize and cite his/her point of view. View not arbitrary but based on actual research, study and experience. Secondly, carefully selected material of the examined candidate could open-in my opinion- further research fields…

Certified Confidentiality Officer (CCO) Program RequirementsTo obtain the Certified Confidentiality Officer (CCO) credential candidates are required to document their education and related experience and pass a 4-hour Essay Examination. The test is based on the book 101 Questions & Answers About Business Espionage and our newsletter The Business Espionage Report (TBER).A Reading List is included for additional Customized Independent Study. CCO Candidates use Search Engines and the Key Words below to find information that fits their specific needs and those of their organizations.

Definition of search engine (Merriam-Webster)“Computer software used to search data (such as text or a database) for specified information; also a site on the World Wide Web that uses such software to locate key words in other sites.”

Definition of key word (Merriam-Webster)“A significant word from a title or document used especially as an index to content. A word exemplifying the meaning or value of a letter or symbol.”

The new examination tests the candidates’ ability to evaluate, synthesize, and apply what they have learned in the CCO Program. Candidates must answer forty (40) test questions in written form by writing short paragraphs to:

Identify, describe and explain a problem

Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of a statement

State why they agree or disagree with a published report

Identify the similarities and differences between items

Discuss the major causes of an adverse event

Describe a situation that illustrates a principle.

CCO RecertificationCCOs receive credits toward Recertification by submitting articles for The Business Espionage Report, BECCA Journal, and/or contributing to our other ongoing research projects. Recertification term is for three (3) calendar years and requires a total of 60 CPE credits per term for continuing education, authorship, and instruction, including Customized Independent Study.

Contact us using your CCO Registration Number for more information.

FAQ

Who is eligible for CCO certification? Applicants must be professionals with a minimum of three (3) years experience and have performed, or had responsibility for, a minimum of five (5) audits, surveys, or inspections in either the public or the private sector. They must also pass the CertifiedConfidentiality Officer (CCO) written examination.Why should I become a CCO?You may be an intelligence specialist in government service or a manager, consultant or instructor in the private sector. You may already have several certifications but want to know more about the Four Faces of Business Espionage to show employers and others that you are serious about security controls and countermeasures.

What are the costs? $350 Certification Fee in U.S. The fee covers the e-book 101 Questions & Answers About Business Espionage, the Exam and the CCO Certificate and ID Card. The Certificate and ID card are sent by USPS Priority Mail to those who successfully complete the program.When can I start? If you meet the requirements, you can start now. 1. Complete the CCO Application and send it to CCO@BECCA-online.org (Do not include the certification fee at this time.) 2. We will review your application, answer any questions you may have and contact you when your application is accepted. The certification fee of $350 will be due at that time. 3. When the fee is paid you will receive instructions regarding the exam. You may take the exam online when you are ready.